Basics

Description

Mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive malignancy of the mesothelial or serous tissues primarily found in the pleura (65–70%) or peritoneum (20–33%), tunica vaginalis (1–2%) or pericardium (1–2%) (1).

Inhalation of asbestos is the predominant cause of mesothelioma, most often from occupational exposure.

Epidemiology

Incidence

The incidence in the United States is decreasing, but it is increasing in other countries, particularly Great Britain and Australia.

It is expected that rates of mesothelioma will start to drop after 2015 to 2025 related to reduced exposure and better understanding of the process of development of mesothelioma after exposure to asbestos (2).

The incidence increases with age, peaking in the 6th decade, with 70% of pleural disease occurring in males. Peritoneal involvement is slightly higher in women.

Main risk factor is asbestos exposure, but tumors have arisen after prior radiation or exposure to talc, erionite, or mica or in patients with familial Mediterranean fever and diffuse lymphocytic leukemia.

PrevalenceThere are 3,300 cases of mesothelioma diagnosed in the United States annually (3).

Risk Factors

Nonoccupational exposures include renovation or destruction of asbestos-containing buildings, exposure to industrial sources in the community or natural geologic sources, or exposure to soiled clothing of asbestos workers (1,3,4).

Radiation exposure, smoking, proximity to naturally occurring asbestos deposits, or inhalation of other fibrous silicates can contribute to malignant mesothelioma.

General Prevention

Avoidance of asbestos exposure

Strict adherence to protective protocols for workers in buildings where asbestos is found

Continued aggressive remediation of asbestos-affected buildings and homes